The third season of the DP World ILT20 is just around the corner, kicking off on 11th January 2025. For the Gulf Giants, the campaign begins on 12th January with a thrilling face-off against the Sharjah Warriors. As we gear up for an action-packed season, our focus is clear: reclaiming the title we proudly won in the inaugural season of 2023. Having reached the Playoffs in the second season, the team is determined to go all the way this time around.
The Squad: A Winning Combination
Leading the charge once again is our captain James Vince, the tournament's all-time leading run-scorer. Vince’s brilliance with the bat and leadership on the field were instrumental in our triumph during Season 1, and we are thrilled to have him back at the helm.
Returning to the squad are several key players who have consistently delivered, including Shimron Hetmyer, Aayan Khan, Jamie Overton, Chris Jordan, Gerhard Erasmus, Jamie Smith, and Jordan Cox. This core group brings a wealth of experience and stability to the team.
The new season also sees some exciting additions to our lineup, strengthening both batting and bowling departments. Tim David, known for his explosive hitting, joins the team alongside seasoned campaigners like Tymal Mills, Adam Lyth, Tom Curran, Ollie Robinson, Mark Adair, and Ibrahim Zadran. With this formidable squad, we are confident of taking on any opposition as we strive for our second championship.
The Opposition: Sharjah Warriors
Our first opponents, the Sharjah Warriors, promise to be a tough challenge. Their batting line-up features stars like Jason Roy, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Avishka Fernando, Johnson Charles, and Tom Kohler-Cadmore. With Kusal Mendis, Matthew Wade, and Tim Seifert bolstering their wicket-keeping options, they bring versatility and depth to the table.
On the bowling front, the Warriors are equally dangerous, boasting names like Adil Rashid, Adam Milne, Ashton Agar, Dilshan Madushanka, and Tim Southee. Their all-rounders, including Daniel Sams, Karim Janat, and Keemo Paul, add balance to their squad.
Head-to-Head: Gulf Giants vs. Sharjah Warriors
In previous seasons, we’ve enjoyed success against the Warriors, defeating them three times in the tournament, including two wins last season. However, we know the past counts for little as we head into Season 3. With both teams fielding revamped squads, this opening encounter promises to be a closely contested battle.
Looking Ahead
The Gulf Giants are ready to rise to the occasion. With a balanced mix of seasoned players and fresh talent, the team is well-equipped to tackle the challenges of a competitive season. As we step onto the field on January 12th, the goal is clear: play fearless cricket, take one game at a time, and bring the trophy home again. Let’s get behind the Giants and cheer them on as they embark on another exciting journey in the DP World ILT20!
